380. The IRS May Owe You a COVID-Era Refund: What to Know Before July 2026

Did you pay IRS penalties or interest during the COVID years? The IRS may owe you a refund. In this episode, Thomas Castelli and Nathan Sosa break down two major court cases that could impact taxpayers who paid penalties and interest between 2020 and 2023. They explain why recent court rulings have challenged the IRS's interpretation of COVID-era tax relief, who may be eligible for a refund, and what steps you should take before the July 2026 deadline. You'll learn: - Why the IRS's handling of COVID-era penalties and interest is being challenged - How the Kwong and Abdo cases could affect taxpayers - Who may qualify for a refund - How to check your IRS transcripts for potential claims - What a protective claim is and why filing one may be important - Why real estate investors and business owners should pay particular attention Plus, Thomas and Nathan answer a listener question about short-term rental tax strategy, cost segregation studies, and how personal use can impact your ability to utilize losses. Important: This opportunity is not guaranteed, and the IRS is continuing to challenge portions of these rulings. However, taxpayers may need to take action before July 10, 2026, to preserve their rights. If you're wondering whether you may qualify, this is an episode you won't want to miss. To become a client, request a consultation from Hall CPA, PLLC at go.therealestatecpa.com/3KSEev6 Get the FREE Ultimate STR Tax Strategy Bundle: go.therealestatecpa.com/strbundle Register for the FREE Investing Debate: go.therealestatecpa.com/debate Submit your question for Tom & Nathan: go.therealestatecpa.com/question The Tax Smart Real Estate Investors podcast is for general information purposes only and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, tax, legal, or accounting advice. Information on the podcast may not constitute the most up-to-date legal or other information. No reader, user, or listener of this podcast should act or refrain from acting on the basis of information on this podcast without first seeking legal and tax advice from counsel in the relevant jurisdiction. Only your individual attorney and tax advisor can provide assurances that the information contained herein – and your interpretation of it – is applicable or appropriate to your particular situation. Use of, and access to, this podcast or any of the links or resources contained or mentioned within the podcast show and show notes do not create a relationship between the reader, user, or listener and podcast hosts, contributors, or guests. Any mention of third-party vendors, products, or services does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation. You should conduct your own due diligence before engaging with any vendor.